The Changan Hunter REEV is one of the more intriguing bakkies to arrive in South Africa recently. In a segment dominated by diesel stalwarts, Changan has decided to try something completely different with a range-extended electric drivetrain.
At first glance though, the Hunter doesn’t shout “experiment”. In fact, it’s quite a handsome double cab.
Design
Our test unit came finished in a striking Olive Green that suits the Hunter particularly well. It gives the bakkie a rugged yet slightly premium look that stands out from the usual sea of white and silver workhorses.
Up front, the Hunter has a bold and modern fascia. The large grille dominates the nose, flanked by slim LED headlamps that give the bakkie a sharp expression. The lighting signature stretches across the front and gives it a slightly futuristic feel, which is fitting given what sits under the skin. The upright stance and sculpted bonnet still make it look every bit like a proper bakkie though.
Interior
Inside, the Hunter surprises with a modern and well-styled cabin. The dashboard layout is clean, with large screens and a design that feels more SUV-like than traditional bakkie.
Material quality is a mix of soft-touch surfaces and harder plastics, which is fairly typical for the segment. Some areas feel nicely padded while others remind you this is still a workhorse at heart.
One highlight is the physical climate control buttons. In a world where many manufacturers hide everything in a touchscreen, having proper buttons makes adjusting temperature on the move far easier.
There are a few drawbacks though. Apple CarPlay proved a bit finicky during our time with the vehicle, occasionally taking some convincing to connect. The sound system also isn’t the strongest, lacking the depth you’d hope for on longer drives.
Practicality is generally good, but we did wish the rear bench could lift in a 60/40 split. Being able to raise only one side would make storing items inside the cabin far easier.
How the drivetrain works (the simple version)
The Hunter REEV uses a range-extended electric system, which is a bit different from a normal hybrid.
Put simply:
• The wheels are powered by electric motors.
• A petrol engine sits under the bonnet, but it doesn’t directly drive the wheels.
• Instead, that engine acts like a generator, producing electricity to recharge the battery when needed.
So most of the time the bakkie drives like an electric vehicle, with smooth and quiet acceleration. When the battery runs low, the petrol engine steps in to generate power and extend the driving range.
Think of it as an electric bakkie with a built-in backup power station.
On the road
When the battery is fully charged, the Hunter drives beautifully. By the way, the Hunter Reev supports DC fast charging with up to 88kW and also allows AC home charging. Power delivery is smooth and immediate, and the quietness adds a layer of refinement that’s unusual in the bakkie world.
The electric motors provide plenty of shove off the line, making the Hunter feel brisk around town. The driving experience feels more relaxed than most diesel bakkies, especially in stop-start traffic.
During our time with the vehicle we managed an overall consumption figure of 8.4L/100km, which is respectable considering the size and capability of the vehicle.
Verdict
The Hunter REEV is a fascinating concept in the bakkie space. The drivetrain offers an interesting middle ground between traditional combustion power and full electrification, while the modern design and tech-forward cabin give it a distinctive feel.
However, the Mzansi bakkie segment is one of the toughest arenas to compete in. Buyers here are loyal to proven names and value durability and practicality above all else.
For that reason, the Hunter REEV may not appeal to the masses just yet. Instead, it’s likely to attract a smaller group of early adopters who appreciate new technology and want something different.
And for those buyers, the Hunter makes a compelling case as a bold alternative in a very traditional segment. The Changan Hunter Reev will set you back R799,900.
